- Joined
- Jul 30, 2019
- Messages
- 211
- Reaction score
- 194
I realized that almost anyone with a little tutelage could master a Cap-Lock Muzzle Loader in a relatively short period of time. Not meaning to brag but I myself have taken a new rifle to the range, sighted it in, then used it at the monthly match and did well.
Flint-locks are a completely different animal. Sometimes if you hold on the target too long, you get the wobbles. In other words, your muzzle seems to be all over the place, then it stops for a moment. With a Cap-lock and “Set Triggers”, you can “pull” the trigger and hit your mark. Do the same with a flint-lock and it will hit some where off to the side. You must “squeeze” the trigger while at the same time trying to keep your sights on where you want the ball to go. If you’re not used to it, the anticipation of the “flash” from the pan going off in front of your eye, gets to you. You flinch or even worse, close your eyes and not only miss the target but the whole back board as well!
Needless to say, this is going to require a lot more practice than I’m used to. I honestly believe that in time I will become as comfortable with the Flint-lock as I am with the Cap-lock. Good thing I enjoy shooting the Muzzle Loaders!
The first photo was Bench Rested. I did so poorly at the Monthly Match, I had to double check! LOL The second and third were Off hand.
Flint-locks are a completely different animal. Sometimes if you hold on the target too long, you get the wobbles. In other words, your muzzle seems to be all over the place, then it stops for a moment. With a Cap-lock and “Set Triggers”, you can “pull” the trigger and hit your mark. Do the same with a flint-lock and it will hit some where off to the side. You must “squeeze” the trigger while at the same time trying to keep your sights on where you want the ball to go. If you’re not used to it, the anticipation of the “flash” from the pan going off in front of your eye, gets to you. You flinch or even worse, close your eyes and not only miss the target but the whole back board as well!
Needless to say, this is going to require a lot more practice than I’m used to. I honestly believe that in time I will become as comfortable with the Flint-lock as I am with the Cap-lock. Good thing I enjoy shooting the Muzzle Loaders!
The first photo was Bench Rested. I did so poorly at the Monthly Match, I had to double check! LOL The second and third were Off hand.